Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Lightly pan-seared mahi-mahi filet topped with a fresh, zesty mango-lime salsa that celebrates tropical flavors. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 23 minutes blends fillets (6 oz each) mahi-mahi fillets, olive oil, salt into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Serves 2 Caribbean cuisine 310 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat 2 mahi-mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Step 3: Place the fillets in the hot skillet and sear for 4 minutes on one side without moving, until edges are golden and fish releases easily from the pan.
  4. Step 4: Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Step 5: While the fish cooks, combine 1 cup diced ripe mango, 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper, 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tsp minced jalapeño (if using) in a bowl; stir gently to mix.
  6. Step 6: Plate the mahi-mahi fillets and spoon the mango-lime salsa over the top just before serving to add a refreshing, tropical contrast.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 23 minutes (15 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Mahi-Mahi with Mango-Lime Salsa?

Caribbean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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